HC Deb 20 June 1967 vol 748 cc1389-90
21. Mr. Biffen

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government by what amount he intends to revise the projected expenditure of £4,392 million by local authorities in 1969–70, at 1965 Survey Prices, in account of the underfulfilment of the National Plan; if he will specify the services affected by the revision; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Anthony Greenwood)

I would refer the hon. Member to what my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer said in his Budget statement.

Mr. Biffen

On this subject, that was remarkably uncommunicative. Does the right hon. Gentleman expect that figure to be revised as a result of the Chancellor's statement? As soon as the revision is fulfilled, will he undertake to report to the House in the detailed manner requested in the Question?

Mr. Greenwood

I am not sure that it is possible to be more communicative to the hon. Gentleman, because no one is clear what his Question requests. It refers to figures on both current and capital account, to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and the responsibility of many other departmental Ministers. I can go no further than my right hon. Friend the Chief Secretary did in reply to the hon. Gentleman on 13th June.